1. What is a tummy tuck?

Abdominoplasty, also known as Tummy Tuck is a procedure aimed at removing the excess abdominal skin and tightening the muscles and skin of the abdomen. It also lifts the pubis to a more rejuvenated look.


2. What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a procedure aimed at removing unwanted deposits of fat in areas that are not wanted. For liposuction to work well, the overlying skin needs to be taut and should not have lost its elasticity. There is no scientific evidence that liposuction by any method, ultrasound liposuction, laser liposuction or water jet liposuction can tighten the overlying skin. These are claims made by the companies and some doctors for marketing purposes.


3. When is liposuction sufficient and when is a tummy tuck necessary?

Tummy tuck results are particularly dramatic in women who have had multiple pregnancies or given birth to larger babies. This causes the muscles and skin of the abdomen to stretch, causing stretch marks and laxity of the skin to occur. During pregnancy, the muscles are stretched causing separation of the muscles and protrusion of the abdomen.

In some milder conditions, all what are required are liposuction and a mini-abdominoplasty. This results in a small incision line which is hidden in the bikini line. In young individuals who have good skin in the abdomen, but have fat accumulation liposuction is enough to achieve a flat abdomen.


4. What are the risks of liposuction and tummy tuck procedures?

Liposuction and tummy tuck are surgical procedures that carry a certain amount of risks.The risks of a tummy tuck include:

a. Infection

b. Bleeding

c. Seroma (fluid accumulations)

d. Skin loss

e. Blood Clots

f. Scarring

Risks specific to liposuction are all of the above, plus:

a. Lumpiness

b. Taking too much fat or too little fat

c. Waviness of the skin

d. Dents or cannula marks

All relate to the experience of the plastic surgeon.


5. How can one minimize the risk of complications associated with a tummy tuck?

To minimize the risks of either surgery the patient need to be in good general health, free of smoking for at least one month before surgery and one month after surgery. Patients undergoing surgery must have a complete history and physical examination and blood work by their family physician.


6. Are tummy tucks covered by insurance?

Both liposuction and Tummy Tuck are cosmetic procedures and are not covered by insurance. They are self-pay. The cost includes the surgeon fees, anesthesia fees and facility fees. Follow up visits are included in the price until complete healing have occurred. The cost of Revision surgery, when needed have to be discussed with the surgeon before surgery is performed.